Chris Smith Pays Tribute To Kris Kross Bandmate Chris Kelly

Chris 'daddy Mac' Smith has broken his silence following the death of his Kris Kross bandmate Chris 'mac Daddy' Kelly on Wednesday (01May13), insisting he will "always cherish the memories" of their friendship.

The 34 year old was pronounced dead at a hospital in Atlanta, Georgia after he was found unresponsive at his home in the city, and stars including Sean 'Diddy' Combs, LL Cool J and Nicki Minaj took to Twitter.com to pay their respects to the star, who was discovered in an Atlanta shopping mall by Jermaine Dupri in 1990.

Now Smith has added his tribute to his close pal in a statement, which reads: "Chris Kelly was my Best Friend. He was like a brother. I love him and will miss him dearly.

"Our friendship began as little boys in first grade. We grew up together. It was a blessing to achieve the success, travel the world and entertain Kris Kross fans all around the world (sic) with my best friend. It is what we wanted to do and what brought us happiness. I will always cherish the memories of the C-Connection. Kris Kross forever."

Smith's autopsy was carried out on Thursday (02May13) and there was no indication of foul play. Cops are investigating the possibility that drugs were involved in the rapper's death.